Big Chute and Sanctuary at StarPoint Marina (#31)

After a full day of locking, we planned to wait for the Big Chute. However, we arrived early without a wait. Some boat wait hours. When we arrived we quickly found the blue line to tie up, and they called us over on the loud speaker immediately. We were hardly ready. As we drove up this big looming railroad chute started decending in the water. We can't really explain how ominous this looks especially when you aren't truly prepared. But, we decided to go for it and head over. Ted was prepared to shut our Sea Cocks so we didn't have issues with our AC or Engines and he instructed Laura how to head over to the chute. We approached slowly to the left (starboard) side and the Lockmaster helped pull us in. There was no one else around and we rode by ourselves.

He instructed us how to move forward to be on the slings to stabilize, but not lift the boat in the Big Chute.

He carefully instructed us how to move forward and when to stop.

Ted took these from the outside as we were heading over the road below.

Off the the port side were the rapids.

Ahead was the roller coaster looking railroad bridge.

Fabulous Starport Marina in Severn before the last lock.

Top notch washrooms and boaters lounge.

Fabulus indian food and salad.

Top off with the Kawartha ice cream at this cute store.

Review:

Starpoint Marina

Pros: free laundry, great staff, food nearby, marine store, non-ethanol gas

Cons: quick current and wind for arrival

4 Stars